Karim Jammal, who will captain the side in Doha for fixtures on 2 and 5 April against Jordan and Qatar respectively, is hoping to do the ‘jersey proud’ once more.

“We only get a short period of training together before the ARC and this year isn’t any different,” said Jamal.

“Our goal is to put in a quality performance and do the jersey proud. If we play to our capabilities then we will be a threat to both teams.”

Jammal plays fly-half for Lebanon and understands the importance of having international competition for the growth of rugby in his country.

“Rugby in Lebanon is an ever-growing sport and success on the international stage for both men and women will only attract positivity from the general public and help get kids excited to play the game.

“With a great emphasis on grassroots rugby as well the future for Lebanon rugby is looking bright.”
Head coach and Director of Rugby Development Steve Wrigglesworth echoes Jammal’s sentiments in relation to Lebanon’s continued growth in rugby.

“In terms of player base we have a lot of young boys and girls now playing regularly and our numbers are increasing,” added Wrigglesworth.

“We are building our clubs and structures and hope to increase our venues for playing over the next 18 months.

“The ARC is an important part of our player pathway. We will also be taking a women’s sevens team, an U18 fifteens to compete at international level, with U16 and U14 sevens teams playing local teams.

“It is our highlight of the year and we hope to have another opportunity later in the year for more international games.”